Associate Vice President for Academic Operations - Seattle Pacific University

What We Need:
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic higher education leader to serve as the Associate Vice President for Academic Operations (AVPAO). Reporting directly to the Vice President for Academic Affairs/Chief Academic Officer (CAO), the AVPAO will oversee critical academic support operations, including the library, registrar's office with academic advising, and a growing portfolio of academic enrichment services. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring that academic support structures align with SPU's mission while fostering student success and engagement. Additionally, the AVPAO will serve as the university's Accreditation Liaison Officer and oversee academic assessment processes and compliance.

What You Will Do:

Lead Academic Support & Enrichment Services

• Provide strategic leadership for the Office of the Registrar and Academic Advising, the University Library, and Tutoring Services.
• Offer management and budget oversight to these units, ensuring operational excellence and alignment with SPU's mission.
• Collaborate with Deans, faculty, and unit leads to strengthen academic support services.
• Serve on faculty senate committees, including Curriculum, Admissions, Advising & Retention, and Assessment.
• Guide Study Abroad programs and Career Services, working with Deans and staff to create meaningful opportunities for students.

Drive Retention Strategy & Student Success

• In collaboration with President's Cabinet, develop and implement a comprehensive strategic retention plan.
• Track and report key retention metrics, collaborating across campus to enhance student engagement and support services.

Ensure Accreditation & Assessment Excellence

• Serve as the university's Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO) with the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
• Coordinate accreditation reports, site visits, and compliance efforts, ensuring continued academic excellence.
• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive academic assessment and continuous improvement plan.
• Manage academic integrity processes and compliance reporting.

Support the Vice President for Academic Affairs/CAO

• Assist with academic planning, curriculum oversight, personnel management, and other responsibilities that shape SPU's academic vision.

What You Bring:

Education: Doctorate or PhD in an academic field.

Experience: At least five years in higher education leadership, including managing curricular and co-curricular programs.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of accreditation, assessment, and academic data management.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with faculty and staff in a mission-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Passion for student success demonstrated through teaching, mentoring, or related activities.
• Deep commitment to SPU's Christian mission and values, demonstrated through an active and growing Christian faith, and a willingness to uphold and contribute to the university's faith-centered community.

Why Join SPU?
At SPU, you will find a community dedicated to academic innovation, faith integration, and student transformation. Our faculty and staff are passionate about preparing students for meaningful lives of service and leadership. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of academic operations while being part of a university that values excellence, collaboration, and a strong Christian mission. If you are a visionary leader eager to make a lasting impact in Christian higher education, we invite you to apply.

Salary: $150,000 - $160,000 DOE

This is a full time position with excellent benefits. SPU pays the employee premium for medical, dental, and vision insurance. SPU makes generous contributions to an employee HSA account and a 7% contribution to a retirement account, for eligible employees, with immediate vesting in the plan. Tuition discount program (50% - 90%) available for the employee and qualified immediate family members.